Ramadan 2018: Dubai iftars you need to try

The best ways to break the fast, from traditional buffets to fusion feasts

By
Time Out Dubai staff
22 May 2018

Iftar is the meal with which Muslims break their daily fast. Here are places to try in Dubai this year, during Ramadan 2018.

Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and a small drink of either water, juice or Arabic coffee, before prayers are undertaken, following which iftar is served.

Often, Emirati families put on big evening meals for all their family and friends – you’ll sometimes see iftar tents pop up outside big villas – though many also dine out at the many restaurants around the city.

Besh Turkish KitchenEnjoy the season with a lavish Turkish iftar at Besh. Hot and cold mezze and salads, pide, grills and Turkish tea.Dhs111 per person for the first 10 days of the Ramadan, Dhs155 per person, Dhs135 for groups of ten to 40 people, Dhs125 for groups of 40+ people, Dhs70 kids aged six-12. Daily from sunset-9pm. Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Hotel, Al Barsha (04 377 2353).

Common GroundsStay healthy with this vegan iftar. It features a packed three course a la carte menu throughout Ramadan.Dhs110 (including a smoothie). Daily from sunset. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha (050 478 1094).

Pinch GourmetFusing and reinventing traditional cuisines from the West to the East, Pinch Gourmet invites you to a unique and unforgettable Pop-Up Experience in Times Square Centre in the heart of Al Quoz.Dhs195 per adult plus VAT, Dhs125 for kids aged five-12, free for kids under five. Daily from sunset-10pm. Times Square Centre, Al Quoz (050 100 4860, 04 884 2554).

Dubai AutodromeSpoil the adrenaline seeker in you while pushing an Audi TT or S3 to its limits on the track followed by iftar cuisine.From Dhs605. Call for reservations. Daily, 6.30pm-9.30pm. Motor City (800 AUTODROME).

A family-style set menu. Guests will be able to choose from cold and warm starters followed by soup, a main course and dessert.Dhs230 per person. Private bookings available. Daily from sunset-11pm. Culture Village, Al Jaddaf (04 556 8830).

Indulge in a variety of traditional dishes from the buffet – a selection of juices, salad, mezze, soups, breads, and main courses.Dhs69 per person. Daily from sunset-9.30pm. Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai, Bur Dubai (04 397444).

BoardwalkHead to the Creek for an iftar with a difference. Take to the waters aboard the BBQ Donut and you’ll enjoy traditional Middle Eastern dishes such as shish tawook, lamb kofta, falafel, kibbeh and fattoush, with a variety of fruit and local sweets for dessert. Dhs165. Daily, sunset-8pm. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Deira, www.dubaigolf.com (04 295 6000).

Medley RestaurantPrepared by “master chef” Mama and served in an Arabic authentic atmosphere to the sounds of a live oud player.Dhs189 (adults), Dhs89 for kids aged six-12, free for kids under six. Daily from 7pm-11pm. Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, Deira (04 294 1222).

The Market Place and Town SquareCelebrate the breaking of fast with an iftar buffet designed to bring families, friends and colleagues together.Dhs115 per person, Dhs50 for kids aged five-12,free for kids under five. Daily from sunset-9pm. JW Marriott Hotel Dubai, Deira (04 607 7977).

Capital Club DubaiA traditional iftar for groups, offering of hot and cold mezze, classic dishes such as mixed grill as well as an Indian menu.Dhs160 per person (50 people and above), Dhs170 (30-49 people), Dhs180 (20-30 people). Daily from sunset. Building 3, Gate Village, DIFC (04 364 0111).

Intersect by LexusThis trendy DIFC restaurant offers an iftar made up of flavourful international cuisine with an Arabic twist and refreshing drinks.Dhs250 per person. Gate Village 7, DIFC (04 355 9524).

MINA BrasserieMINA Brasserie will serve a delicious four course sharing menu to see in the sunset in a beautiful setting in the heart of DIFC.Dhs210 per person. Daily from 6pm-8pm. Four Seasons Hotel, DIFC (0 4 506 0000).

Penrose LoungeFeast on delicious savoury and sweet treats with the creative “iftar-noon tea” which will be on offer at Penrose Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel DIFC.Dhs179 per person. Daily from sunset-11pm. Four Seasons Hotel, DIFC (0 4 506 0200).

PeyoteA Mezze-style menu is accompanied by a specially curated mocktail at this Mexican restaurant.Dhs125 per person (including five starter plates and a desert), Dhs198 (full menu including main course). Gate Village 2, DIFC (04 521 6300).

Royal ChinaA set menu featuring traditional Cantonese starters, sharing mains and dessert, including a welcome Orient-inspired mocktail and date.Dhs268 per person. Daily from sunset-closing. Building 4, DIFC (04 354 5543).

Sheraton Grand Hotel Dubai Varied selection of Arabic and international cuisine available from live cooking stations. Book before Tuesday May 8 for a 30 percent discount.Dhs210 per person. Daily from sunset. Sheikh Zayed Road (04 503 4309).

Go all out at a traditional buffet featuring a spread of more than 200 dishes, with international and traditional Arabic ﬂavours.Dhs215 per person. Daily from sunset-8.30pm. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay (04 414 3000).

Astor BallroomAn elegant iftar located in the grand ballroom, serving up traditional Arabic dishes such as lamb dukkha and hot and cold mezze with a delicious dessert selection.Dhs235 for 1 to 10 pax, Dhs215 for 11 to 50 pax. Daily from sunset-8.30pm. The St. Regis Dubai, Al Habtoor City (04435 5555).

At.mosphereLocated on Level 122 of the Burj Khalifa and standing 442 metres above the city, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Downtown Dubai at this iftar. You’ll get a discount if you book before Thursday May 10, too.From Dhs475 per person. Daily, 6pm-10.30pm. Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai (04 888 3828).

Carluccio'sEnjoy iftar with an Italian twist at Carluccio’s. Two or three course menus available at all UAE outlets.Dhs99 (two courses), Dhs119 (three courses). Daily from sunset. Various locations including Dubai Mall (04 434 1320).

Clinton St. Baking CompanyEnjoy a set menu of soup, starters, main course including chicken and waffles as well as dessert. The à la carte menu is also available.Dhs152.50 (including VAT). Daily from sunset-1am. Burj Views, Downtown Dubai (04 428 1331).

Cova DubaiThis iftar menu at the brand-new Italian restaurant at The Dubai Mall is served across five courses. Dhs225 per person. Daily from sunset. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, www.covamilano.com.

Dubai OperaA changing menu will be on offer which will rotate each night and is catered by the team at Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera.Dhs250 per person, half price (kids aged six-11), free (kids under six). Daily from sunset-9.30pm. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai (04 440 8888).

GIA RistoranteVisit this new Italian restaurant at The Dubai Mall to try out the special Ramadan set menu. You’ll get a choice of starters, plus a green salad, main course and soft drink for Dhs139.Dhs139 per person. Daily from sunset. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai (04 234 9986).

GünaydınGünaydın Dubai sets the scene for a lively iftar with family and friends. Enjoy a set menu with traditional Turkish favourites.Dhs230 per person. Daily from sunset-9.30pm. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai (052 487 0924).

HUQQAEnjoy iftar at this new Turkish restaurant with view of The Dubai Fountain. Expect a selection of dates, cheeses, salads, stuffed aubergine and mini pides as well as mains such as slow-cooked lamb.Dhs259 per person. Daily from sunset. Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai (04 566 8557).

Karam BeirutArabian favourites including lentil soup, hummus, fattoush, tabbouleh and an assortment of sambousek will start you off at this iftar, before a mixed grill for main course. Dhs145 per person. Daily from sunset. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai (04 4 339 9789).

Kitchen6Six live cooking stations including Japanese, Indian, and international cuisines will be served at this buffet iftar. Dhs225 per person. Daily from sunset-8.30pm. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay (04 414 3000).

Rang Mahal by Atul KochharThere’s a traditional three-course set menu on offer from the famous chef Atul Kochhar.Dhs225 per person. Daily from sunset-8.30pm. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay (04 414 3000).

Seasonal TastesEnjoy a foodie affair at Seasonal Tastes every day from sunset for a delicious buffet-style feast serving international cuisine options for families. Complete with its very own Arabic station, families can break their fast with a lavish iftar experience in Al Habtoor City. Dhs 185 per person. Daily from sunset-10.30pm. The Westin Dubai, Al Habtoor City (04 435 5577).

The CourtyardOffering a family sharing menu with live stations, traditional Arabian culinary delights and a relaxed ambience. There’s a special early bird discount if you book before Thursday May 10. From Dhs175. Daily from sunset-9pm. Manzil Downtown Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai (04 888 3444).

Abd el WahabThere’s a set menu featuring hot and cold mezze. For main course, there is a choice of a daily dish or a mixed grill. Enjoy the views from this Pier 7 location, too. Dhs150 per person. Daily from sunset. Pier 7, Dubai Marina (04 4325772).

Big Chefs This family-friendly location is hosting an iftar. You’ll be welcomed with dates and then treated to soup, bread, mezze and a choice of seven different dishes, which will change throughout the month. Dhs115 per person. Daily from sunset-1am. The Beach, opposite JBR (04 551 5302).

Bombay BungalowEnjoy the stunning sunset with sea views and a curated menu with an Indian twist.Dhs110 per person. Daily from sunset-10pm. The Beach, JBR (800 692 8779).

RÜYAFour-course menu. Main course can be chosen while a weekly soup and selection of starters and desserts will be served to the table.Dhs229. Daily from sunset-11pm. Grosvenor House Dubai, Dubai Marina (04 399 9123).

Seven SandsThis authentic Emirati restaurant invites you to break the fast with traditional flavours and local cuisine with views of the Arabian Gulf.Dhs155 per person, half price for kids aged six-12, free for kids under six. Daily from sunset-9pm. The Beach, JBR (04 551 6652).

Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah BeachEnjoy an iftar buffet specialising in Arabic, Moroccan and Turkish cuisines as well as dishes from across the globe. Dhs150 per person, half price for kids aged seven-12, free for kids under seven. Daily from sunset-10pm. The Walk, JBR (04 448 4848).

AniseEnjoy an international and Arabic buffet with eight live cooking stations at this Festival City spot.Dhs215 per person. Daily from sunset-10pm. InterContinental Dubai Festival City, Dubai Festival City (04 701 1127).

Bareburger

For a casual iftar head to Bareburger. Enjoy a choice of burger or a salad with a side, a drink and a shake for just Dhs69.Dhs69 per person. Daily from sunset-1am. Dubai Festival City Mall, Festival City (04 343 7110).

The ballroom at the Jumeirah Creekside Hotel has been transformed into a contemporary Arabian retreat for Ramadan. Dhs150 per person. Daily from sunset-8.30pm. Jumeirah Creekside Hotel, Garhoud (04 230 8510).

Jebel Ali & The Gardens

Al BahouBuffet featuring traditional Arabic mezze, grills and culinary delights from all around the world. Live oud player will be performing.Dhs185 per person. Daily from sunset-10pm. Mövenpick Hotel Ibn Battuta Gate, The Gardens (04 444 5613).

SOBOThis family-style iftar features a selection of hot and cold mezze, followed by mixed grill platter with rice and Arabic sweets and fruit for dessert.Dhs99 per person. Daily from sunset-9pm. Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community (04 885 2222).

Choose one starter, one main and a dessert at this French restaurant in JLT. The iftar includes water and dates, too. Dhs139 per person. Daily from sunset. Cluster A, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (04 514 9339).

Experience the breaking of fast with a traditional iftar buffet at this JLT location. Plus there’s an early bird deal of Dhs109 if you book before Thursday May 10.Dhs139 per person. Daily from sunset-10.30pm. Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Jumeirah Lakes Towers (04 438 0000).

This family-friendly location is hosting an iftar. You’ll be welcomed with dates and then treated to soup, bread, mezze and a choice of seven different dishes, which will change throughout the month. Dhs115 per person. Daily from sunset-1am. Box Park, Jumeirah (04 347 8048).

Chival Global SocialFeaturing a wealth of traditional Arabian dishes served family style at Chival Global Social every evening throughout Ramadan.Dhs195 per person, Dhs95 for kids up to 12, free for kids under six. Daily from sunset-9pm. La Ville Hotel & Suites City Walk, Al Safa Street (054 309 5948).

Clinton St. Baking CompanyEnjoy a set menu of soup, starters, main course including chicken and waffles as well as dessert. The à la carte menu is also available.Dhs152.50 (including VAT) per person. Daily from sunset-1am. City Walk, Jumeirah (04 344 0705).

Cocoa KitchenCocoa-inspired set menu features a diverse selection of signature mezze, mains and desserts for a twist on the classic iftar.Dhs129 per person. Daily from sunset-9pm. City Walk, Jumeirah (04 343 2506).

COYA DubaiHead to this popular Latin American restaurant for an iftar menu featuring “true Peruvian cuisine”.Dhs289 per person. Daily from 7pm-8pm. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah (04 316 9600).

Demoiselle by GalvinEnjoy this five-course set menu, featuring brand-new dishes in a relaxed setting from the Michelin-starred Galvin brothers. Dhs135 per person. Daily from sunset-9pm. City Walk, Al Safa Street (04 590 5076).

KaftanKaftan is bringing an Ottoman and Turkish spin to iftar this year with its mix of traditional dishes, served buffet style.Dhsa190 per person, Dhs95 for kids (play area for children provided). Daily from sunset-9pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim 3 (04 338 9688).

LIMA DubaiTry out a special iftar menu at Time Out Dubai’s Best Latin American Restaurant 2018, showcasing a selection of LIMA’s signature dishes.Dhs199 per person. Daily, 7pm-9pm. The Square, City Walk, Al Safa Street (056 5004571).

MastiThere’s an iftar menu embracing Eastern flavours with modern twists on Indian-inspired dishes at this new location at La Mer.Dhs150 per person. Daily from 7pm. La Mer, Jumeirah 1 (800 62784).

More CaféThree courses including soup pots to share, a selection of salads and a choice of main courses suitable to all dietary preferences.Dhs99 per person. Daily from sunset. Various locations including Mercato Mall, Jumeirah 2 (04 227 6135).

Society Cafe and LoungeOffering Modern European cuisine during the day, with iftar having a modern twist on a traditional meal.Dhs180 per person. Daily 7pm-10pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1 (04 222 2811).

Suq Restaurant and TentSuq restaurant and tent, which overlooks the gardens at Jumeirah Beach, with bright interiors and live cooking stations.Dhs265 per person, half price for kids aged six-12, free for kids under six. Shisha Available Upon Request. Daily from 7pm-9pm. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah 2 (04 270 7777).

Nad Al Sheba

The Meydan Ramadan TentHead to this special Ramadan Tent at The Meydan Hotel for an iftar featuring a range of traditional dishes.Dhs199 per person, Dhs99 (kids under 12), free (kids under five). Daily from sunset-9pm. The Meydan Hotel, Nad Al Sheba (04 381 3231).

This grand iftar, held in the traditional and famous Asateer tent at Atlantis The Palm offers up a wide ranging of dishes – including those from Bread Street Kitchen and Ronda Locatelli. Dhs220 per person. Daily from sunset-8.30pm. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah (04 426 0376).

Enjoy a traditional iftar buffet with a live kanoun players. Dishes include mezze such as sambousek and moutabel, as well as mixed grills. Plus, for every party of ten adults, one person dines free. Dhs199 per person, Dhs100 (kids aged six-12), free (kids under six). Daily from sunset. Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort, Palm Jumeirah (04 567 8304).

Enjoy a family-style Italian iftar with antipasti, soups, pastas and grills at this classy restaurant at FIVE Palm Jumeirah. Plus, if you book for iftar you’ll get free babysitting for kids aged five to 14 from 6pm until 9pm. Dhs210 per person. Daily from sunset. FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai (04 455 9988).

ZestCelebrate with friends and family at Zest restaurant at the picturesque One&Only The Palm. Enjoy a variety of Arabic and International dishes from sunset every day. Dhs250 per person. Daily from sunset. One&Only The Palm, Palm Jumeirah (04 399 9999).

Homestead Restaurant and Bakery is offering an extraordinary iftar experience with a diverse set menu prepared using local, organic and sustainably sourced ingredients. Combining the best of Emirati, Middle Eastern, Indian and Persian cuisines, the menu puts a unique local spin on the eclectic selection of warm and cold mezzes. Dhs105 per person. Daily from sunset-9pm. Al Khawaneej, (800 HOMESTEAD).

Meze Restaurant

Iftar buffet serving an array of Arabic and international dishes including lamb ouzi, mixed grill with Turkish flavours and pastas along with fresh juices, coffee and tea. There’s also live oud music. Dhs125 per person. Daily from sunset. DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Spa Marjan Island (07 203 0000).